SEA Games

 

BANGKOK — The SEA Games flag-raising ceremony, which symbolizes unity, welcomes athletes, promotes sportsmanship, and honors national identity, was held on December 8 at the Hua Mark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok.

The ceremony also stood as a powerful symbol of the ASEAN motto, “One Vision – One Identity – One Community”, reflecting the shared values and collective spirit of the region.

Serving as a solemn yet celebratory ritual to kick off the regional major sporting tournament, the event featured all delegations including Việt Nam.

For members of the delegation currently based in Chonburi, a second flag-raising ceremony will be held on December 11 at Wyndham Jomtien. 

 

Against the backdrop of mounting global and regional challenges, the image of ASEAN athletes standing side by side in a solemn ceremony delivers a strong message that unity remains the driving force for resilience and sustainable growth.

This spirit is also embedded in the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 pursued by regional leaders.

For the Vietnamese delegation, the moment the national flag is hoisted in Bangkok serves as a reminder of their dual mission – striving for sporting excellence while also showcasing an image of Việt Nam that is confident, dynamic, and friendly.

Each athlete enters the Games carrying not only medal hopes, but also the responsibility of strengthening regional solidarity and friendship.

Among the first-time SEA Games athletes, 18-year-old swimmer Trịnh Trường Vinh described the experience as a proud and emotional milestone. He said the moment has added to his motivation to compete with maximum determination and contribute to Việt Nam’s medal ambitions.

Speaking with reporters, Việt Nam's chef-de-mision Nguyễn Hồng Minh appreciated the hosts' organisation efforts and hoped his delegation would get high result in the Games that would officially begin on December 9.

“Although the hosts have faced many difficulties such as disasters and the state funeral, they have made great efforts to organise the 33rd SEA Games," said Minh.

"Therefore, the responsibility of the delegations and Việt Nam is to contribute to the success of the Games."

He said that Việt Nam applies science and technology, including AI, to develop training plans, analyse tactics, and compete for the best possible results.

Competing against strong regional rivals such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore – countries with several sports at world-class levels – would help Vietnamese athletes sharpen their skills, improve their techniques, and narrow the gap with more developed sporting nations. — VNS